Science
Proteomics reveals animal and plant proteins in ancient Egyptian adhesives
Ars Technica reports researchers identified unexpected plant proteins alongside animal collagens on ancient Egyptian artifacts.
The short version
- Researchers utilized mass spectrometry-based proteomics to evaluate adhesives and glues found across ancient Egyptian artifacts.[Ars Technica]
- The analysis uncovered customary animal collagens and egg proteins along with plant proteins from sesame and drumstick tree cereals.[Ars Technica]
- The exact chemical makeup of many Egyptian binders and paints has long remained uncertain because traditional testing risks damaging historical items.[Ars Technica]
Key facts
- A study published in Science Advances applied mass spectrometry-based proteomics to investigate glues and adhesives on ancient Egyptian items.[Ars Technica]
- The tests identified expected egg proteins and animal collagens as well as plant proteins derived from sesame and drumstick tree cereals.[Ars Technica]
- Common historical Egyptian pigments included hematite, realgar, goethite, orpiment, Egyptian blue, Egyptian green, and carbon-based black.[Ars Technica]
- Washington State University researchers previously reproduced Egyptian blue by heating silicon dioxide, copper, calcium, and sodium carbonate.[Ars Technica]
What remains uncertain
- The exact compositions of many ancient Egyptian paints, adhesives, and binders remain largely unknown because comprehensive testing can damage delicate artifacts.[Ars Technica]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.